Imagine... you're searching online for a new puppy and you stumble onto a web site that appears to have just the one you've been looking for. According to the site, the pup is vaccinated, in good health, and has his official papers. There are even photos: in one, the puppy is scampering through a field of daisies; in another, he's curled up by the fireplace in a comfy little bed.

For humans, Independence Day generally means fun... or at least a barbeque and time off from work. But thanks to fireworks, the Fourth of July can be the scariest night of the year for dogs. The sudden, deafening sounds (what's loud to us is ear-piercing to them) and bursts of light in the sky can elicit serious anxiety, if not downright terror.

So to avoid sending your pets trembling with fear, hiding in remote parts of the house, or even running away, check out these tips for keeping them feeling safe and secure.

You recycle. You eat organic. You put on a sweater before you crank up the heat. But have you ever considered your dog's effect on the environment? And have you thought about what the environment's doing to your dog?

With pet-friendly hotels, cabins, and resort spots popping up all over the map, traveling with your best friend has never been easier. But while jetting off without planning in advance sounds romantic, it can cause sticky situations if your dog is along for the ride.